Be a Capital AIDS Advocate

While technology has made it possible to mobilize more people in more places than ever before, the face-to-face encounter between a constituent and a policymaker continues to be the most powerful advocacy strategy. As people concerned about and living with HIV/AIDS, we have the responsibility and the opportunity to educate and influence lawmakers about the issues that are important to our communities. In order for legislators to make informed and sound decisions regarding HIV/AIDS policy, they must first hear from HIV/AIDS advocates and people who are HIV-positive.

What is more, legislators WANT to hear from us. Their policy positions are often the result of a lack of accurate information or awareness. Representatives have an electoral incentive to be informed and address all the issues that are important to their constituents.

As advocates, it is our job to facilitate the meaningful dialogue between constituent and policymaker. A statewide action day is a powerful way to bring together the energy of face-to-face contact with the complimentary desires of representatives and their constituents to hear and be heard.

Let’s All Go to the Capital!
Not only does a statewide action day give community members the chance to meet with legislators, but it also provides an invaluable networking opportunity as well as an empowering moment of solidarity. These events, no matter how large or small, bring people with common interests together in one place, enabling them to better organize, mobilize, and bring about change down the road.

What it Takes to Organize a Statewide Action Day
The organization of a statewide action day requires the successful completion and coordination of tasks that fall into three general areas: people, program, and plan. Check out this simple lobby day organizing how-to guide to build a successful event. If you have questions and would like advice on organizing, you can contact Jessica Terlikowski at AFC.

State Lobby Day Organizing Materials:
Statewide Action Day Organizing Guide

10 Tips to Organize a Successful Lobby Day

Meeting with Legislators

Media Advocacy:
Sample Media Strategies

Sample Letter-to-the-Editor

Letter-to-the-Editor Writing Tips

Advocacy Rules/Tips from the Alliance for Justice:
Worry-Free Lobbying for Non-Profits

E-Advocacy for Non-Profits

Community Organizing Tips